Hot Honey Baked Chicken with Rice

Why You’ll Love This Hot Honey Baked Chicken with Rice

Hot Honey Baked Chicken with Rice is a delightful dish that combines sweet and spicy flavors. The tender chicken, coated in a sticky hot honey glaze, pairs perfectly with fluffy rice. This recipe is not only easy to make but also brings a comforting warmth to your dinner table. It’s perfect for family gatherings, weeknight dinners, or even special occasions. The blend of flavors and textures will leave everyone asking for seconds!

What You’ll Need for Hot Honey Baked Chicken with Rice

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this delicious dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

Complete Ingredients List

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 1 cup jasmine rice (uncooked)
• 1/4 cup honey
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredient Substitutions & Alternatives

If you have dietary restrictions, here are some swaps:

• Use chicken breasts instead of thighs for a leaner option.
• For a vegan version, substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh.
• Replace hot honey with regular honey and add a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.
• Use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce sodium intake.

How to Make Hot Honey Baked Chicken with Rice

Making Hot Honey Baked Chicken with Rice is simple and rewarding. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and the skin becomes crispy.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, red pepper flakes, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Whisk together until well combined.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.

Step 4: Prepare the Rice

While the chicken is marinating, rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and keeps the rice fluffy. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice and chicken broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 5: Bake the Chicken

In a large oven-safe skillet or baking dish, arrange the marinated chicken thighs skin-side up. Pour any remaining marinade over the chicken. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy and caramelized. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Step 6: Serve

Fluff the cooked jasmine rice with a fork and spread it evenly on a serving platter or individual plates. Carefully place the baked chicken thighs on top of the rice. Drizzle any remaining pan juices over the chicken for added flavor.

Step 7: Garnish and Enjoy

Sprinkle sliced green onions over the chicken and rice for a fresh touch and added color. Serve hot and enjoy the combination of tender chicken with the sweet and spicy hot honey glaze, complemented by the fluffy jasmine rice.

Serving Suggestions for Hot Honey Baked Chicken with Rice

How to Serve Hot Honey Baked Chicken with Rice

Serve the chicken hot, right from the oven. For a beautiful presentation, place the rice on a plate and top it with the chicken. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color.

Perfect Pairings & Toppings

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. You can also add a sprinkle of sesame seeds or chopped green onions for extra flavor. A side of pickled vegetables can also enhance the meal.

Storing & Preserving Hot Honey Baked Chicken with Rice

Best Storage Methods

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Make sure to separate the chicken from the rice to maintain texture.

Reheating or Freezing Tips

To reheat, place the chicken and rice in the microwave for a few minutes until warmed through. If you want to freeze it, wrap the chicken tightly in foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When reheating from frozen, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before warming.

Tips for Perfect Hot Honey Baked Chicken with Rice Every Time

Avoid These Common Mistakes

• Don’t skip drying the chicken; it helps achieve crispy skin.
• Make sure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
• Be careful not to over-marinate the chicken, as it can become too salty.

Helpful Tricks for Success

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in hot honey for a few hours before cooking. This will enhance the taste and tenderness. Additionally, for extra crispy skin, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Fun Variations of Hot Honey Baked Chicken with Rice

Flavor Variations or Recipe Twists

Try adding different spices like paprika or cayenne for a kick. You can also mix in vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for a one-pan meal. For a tropical twist, consider adding pineapple chunks to the marinade.

Dietary-Friendly Adjustments

To make this dish gluten-free, ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free. You can also use cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. For a dairy-free version, simply ensure all ingredients are free from dairy products.

FAQs

What If My Hot Honey Baked Chicken with Rice Doesn’t Turn Out Right?

If your chicken is dry, it may have been overcooked. Always check the internal temperature to avoid this. If the rice is too sticky, it may have been overcooked or not rinsed properly.

Can I Prepare This in Advance?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken a day ahead and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. You can also cook the rice in advance and reheat it when serving.

What Ingredients Can I Swap?

You can swap chicken for tofu, use brown rice instead of white, or adjust the honey for sweetness levels. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different types of rice, such as basmati or wild rice.

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